Since this podcast launched, Wendy Hasenkamp has guided listeners through 84 in-depth conversations, bringing warmth, curiosity, and intellectual depth to every episode. After five years with the show and over 13 years with the Mind & Life Institute, Wendy is stepping into a new chapter, returning to school and pursuing studies to become a clinical herbalist. While we’ll miss her deeply, we’re excited about this new path for her, where she will surely continue to share her wisdom and guide others toward greater well-being and connection. In this special episode, Mind & Life co-producer Phil Walker sits down with Wendy for a conversation reflecting on her time as host—the insights gained, the themes that emerged, and the questions that continue to inspire her. They cover many topics, including: her own path into contemplative science; finding a home in the Mind & Life community; the dialogue between Buddhism and science; supporting science education for Tibetan monastics; science communication, nuance & mindfulness hype; how this podcast was born and evolved over time; the importance of open-mindedness and critique in science; some key themes that emerged from years of conversations with leading thinkers and scholars; reckoning with an interdependent self; the problem of othering; mind-body connection; reflections on where contemplative science has been and where it’s going; interconnectedness with nature; and her next steps in the world of herbalism and holistic medicine. Full show notes and resources